Holtzman, E. & Snyder, A. (2010). Educating leaders in a culture of change: Harnessing the power of community partnerships. Issues in Teaching and Learning. Rhode Island College.

Holtzman, E. G. (March, 2010). From yoga to group counseling: Addressing one classroom’s anxiety needs. Paper to be presented at National Association of School Psychologist Annual Convention, Chicago, IL.

Teaching Collaborations

Interdisciplinary School Leadership Development Seminar

3 session inter departmental series---School culture is, in part, comprised of the beliefs shared by education professionals, including principals, school counselors and school psychologists. This series examines beliefs of pre-service graduate students in Counseling, Educational Leadership and School Psychology regarding the roles and functions of each specific discipline in addressing challenging student behavior. This process will utilize “crucial conservations” (Patterson, Grenny, McMillan & Switzler, 2002) to unpack underlying assumptions of school discipline systems and their responsiveness to students with different emotional and behavioral needs. The impact of interdisciplinary collaboration on graduate student development will be examined through theoretical discussion, experiential learning and case based training.

Research Interests

Dr. Gibbons Holtzman’s current projects include:
(a) Mindfulness and education
1. Completed year long certification program through Mindful Schools. Collaborating with Henry Barnard School to support mindfulness curriculum school wide.
2. Promoting pre-service teacher wellness in elementary education and early childhood by teaching mindfulness techniques to student teachers.
(b) Created program through a collaboration of Learning for Life, the Disabilities Service Center and RIC's Counseling, Educational Leadership and School Psychology Department for students who suspect they have a learning disability but have not had the opportunity for a current and comprehensive evaluation to participate in a strength based Comprehensive Learning Assessment. The goals of this assessment include: identifying strengths and needs of the student, increasing the student's self--awareness of their learning, and documenting needed academic accommodations and supports. Targeted recommendations based on the assessment results are generated and shared with the student to support their path to success at Rhode Island College.

Community Involvement

Advisory Board, Mount Pleasant Teacher Academy

Board member, Rhode Island School Psychology Association

RI School Psychology Leadership Coalition

Professional Experience

Licensed Psychologist (2000-present) Clinical interests include child, adolescent and family counseling for emotional and social challenges; supporting individuals with Asperger’s Disorder be successful throughout their school journey and beyond; teacher stress and school crisis.

Consultant (2000-present) Provide professional development training and support to schools, professional groups and organizations concerning topics related to social and emotional functioning at individual, classroom and system levels.